Writer’s Block? 6 Strategies to Make Sure You Never Run Out of Ideas or Motivation

If you run a small business, a blog, or work in any type of field that requires writing, you’ve most likely experienced writer’s block at some point in time. Writer’s block is being unable to either think of a topic to write about or move forward with a predetermined idea. You have a deadline to meet and you want the article to be superb, but unfortunately your mind is stuck.

Where do you go from there?

Today, we’re discussing six strategies to help you both come up with fresh, exciting topics and find the motivation to write about them — a formula that consistently allows you to write article after article without losing your zest.

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Strategies to Alleviate Writer’s Block

Jot Down Ideas as They Come to You

Writers can agree that their best ideas usually come to them when they least expect it, such as in the shower, while driving or even while sleeping. The idea is so good you think there is no way you will forget it, but if you’re like me, you do (especially the ideas that come in the middle of the night!).

This is why it’s pertinent, as a writer, to always jot down your ideas (and some notes) as they come to you. You can refer to this ever-growing list anytime you’re stuck on what to write.

Get Out of the House

The best writers are inspired by their everyday lives. If you’re constructing an article on turning your business idea into a reality, for example, your final piece will be much more relatable if you actually test these methods out yourself.

Instead of sitting behind a computer screen all day, get out and experience all that life has to offer. The more well-versed you are in life, the easier it will be to write.

Look to Others for Motivation

Who is your favorite author? What’s your favorite website on your topic of choice? Research what others are saying about your given topic to find inspiration for your own work. Most likely, whatever you’re working on is not “new” information, but rather a new way of presenting and sharing strategies and tactics that work for you.

Read message boards, forums, comments on articles and more to brainstorm your own ideas and strategies.

Spend 30 Minutes Reading

It’s true what they say — reading makes you a better writer. Next time you find yourself staring at a blank screen, take a break and spend 30 minutes reading. You can read a fiction book for fun, read articles online on the topic you’re writing about, read your favorite blog or read a magazine.

For 30 minutes, don’t focus on putting your own words on paper, but instead focus on hearing what others have to say.

Eliminate Distractions

Once you’ve spent 30 minutes reading, it’s time to focus in on your task at hand. The best way to do this is by eliminating all of your surrounding distractions. Turn off the television, log out of your email, stay off of social media and retreat to a quiet, relaxing room.

Just Write

Sometimes the only way to combat writer’s block is to simply sit down and write. Let go of expectations and instead, let the words flow naturally. You can always go back and edit your piece a few hours or a day later. Sometimes writing something — anything — is better than nothing!

Bonus: Start in the Middle

Typically, the intro and conclusion are the hardest pieces to write. How do you begin your article so you attract — and keep — readers? On the other hand, how do you end your article? Do you want your readers to feel challenged or do you want them to have an “ah-ha” moment regarding your piece?

Instead of worrying about the beginning and the end, focus on the middle. Outline your article and fill in the pieces that are easiest for you. Coupled with the strategies mentioned above, the rest of your article should start to flow naturally.

Last time you experienced writer’s block, how did you overcome it?

Writer’s Block Photo via Shutterstock

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